If you’ve ever wondered what your favourite songs would sound like with a little more twang, a little more fiddle, and a whole lot of charm, Almost Country is ready to answer the question — and then some. Led by the effortlessly likeable Donny Goodman and joined by three equally talented musicians, this show gleefully takes well-known hits and spins them into toe-tapping, bluegrass, country gold.

Between them, the quartet juggles an impressive line-up of instruments — guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, double bass, and who can forget the contract-mandated harmonica — all played with skill that makes it look far easier than it is. Layered over the top were the feelings of four mates hanging out and jamming, enjoying each other's company and the good vibes that feel warm, rich, and unmistakably country, even when the source material might surprise you.

Hosted downstairs at The Lyric's Underground, the venue proved to be the perfect backdrop. Intimate without feeling cramped, it carried a relaxed, welcoming energy that matched the spirit of the performance. The audience had clearly arrived ready for a good time, and the band delivered in spades. The only real miss? No dance floor. Judging by the number of shoulders swaying and boots tapping, more than a few crowd members were itching for a proper boogie.

A standout moment of the night was the country-styled rendition of Pink Pony Club, which landed with the crowd in a big way — playful, unexpected, and impossible not to smile along with.

Almost Country doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s precisely its magic. It’s joyful, skilful, and just a little bit cheeky — a musical reminder that sometimes all a great song needs is a banjo to make it feel brand new.